Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A method for enhancing an image, comprising, identifying an image; deconstructing the image into a frequency-based spatial domain representation utilizing a pyramidal data structure that includes a plurality of levels on a frequency-by-frequency basis and wherein a portion of the levels each includes an associated Frequency Isolation Image (FII); reconstructing an enhanced image from the frequency-based spatial domain representation utilizing a frequency blender to amplify selected frequency levels of the frequency-based spatial domain representation by applying amplification to the FII to enhance contrast to augment low spatial frequency perception of contours and depth, and wherein the frequency blender avoids exceeding available dynamic range at each level; and returning the enhanced image.
This invention relates to image enhancement techniques, specifically improving contrast and depth perception by selectively amplifying spatial frequencies. The method addresses the challenge of enhancing image details while avoiding distortion from excessive dynamic range expansion. The process begins by analyzing an input image and decomposing it into a multi-level pyramidal data structure, where each level corresponds to a specific frequency range. This decomposition generates Frequency Isolation Images (FIIs) at certain levels, isolating distinct frequency components. The method then reconstructs an enhanced image by applying a frequency blender, which selectively amplifies chosen frequency levels. The blender adjusts amplification to enhance low spatial frequencies, improving contour and depth perception without exceeding the display's dynamic range. The enhanced image is then output. The technique ensures that high-frequency details remain preserved while low-frequency structures are emphasized, resulting in improved visual clarity and depth. The pyramidal decomposition and frequency-specific processing allow for precise control over contrast enhancement, avoiding artifacts like haloing or clipping. This approach is particularly useful in applications requiring high dynamic range imaging, such as medical imaging, photography, and computer vision.
2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the deconstructing comprises creating the frequency-based spatial domain representation by: performing a downward pass that operates on the plurality of levels of the pyramidal data structure on a sequential resolution-by-resolution basis from higher to lower resolution to downsample at each level other than a lowest level to generate a lower resolution downsampled instance for that level, wherein a highest level instance is the identified image and the lowest level downsampled instance is also called the residue instance; performing an upward pass in a sequential resolution-by-resolution basis from lower to higher resolution and starting at a next-to-lowest resolution level, to upsample the next lower resolution downsampled instance at each level to generate an upsampled representation for that level; and subtracting the upsampled representation from the downsampled instance to generate a frequency isolation representation for that pyramid level.
This method enhances an image by first breaking it down into different frequency components. This "deconstruction" creates a frequency-based spatial domain representation using a multi-level pyramid structure, where each level represents a specific spatial frequency and contains a Frequency Isolation Image (FII). The process involves two main passes: 1. **Downward Pass:** The original image is progressively downsampled (resolution reduced) from the highest level down to the lowest. The original image is the highest level, and the lowest resolution output is termed the "residue instance." 2. **Upward Pass & Isolation:** Starting from the second-lowest resolution, a "next lower resolution downsampled instance" is upsampled to create an "upsampled representation." This upsampled representation is then subtracted from the corresponding "downsampled instance" at the current level. This subtraction isolates specific frequency content, generating the Frequency Isolation Image (FII) for that pyramid level. These FIIs are then used by a frequency blender to amplify selected frequencies, enhancing contrast and improving perception of contours and depth without exceeding dynamic range.
3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the reconstructing the enhanced image from the frequency-based spatial domain representation utilizing the frequency blender to perform the blending of the plurality of levels, and wherein a residue instance also constitutes a blended representation at the lowest pyramid level, comprises: performing an upward pass that operates on the plurality of levels of the pyramidal data structure on a sequential resolution-by-resolution basis from lower to higher resolution and starting at the next-to-lowest resolution level, to produce a frequency blended representation at each resolution level by: modifying the frequency isolated representation at that pyramid level to generate a modified frequency isolated representation; upsampling the frequency blended representation for the next lower resolution pyramid level, to generate a modified blended representation; and blending the modified frequency isolated representation at that pyramid level with the modified blended representation to generate the frequency blended representation at that pyramid level; and returning one or more of the frequency blended representations as the enhanced image.
This invention relates to image processing, specifically enhancing image quality through frequency-domain blending in a pyramidal data structure. The method addresses the challenge of improving image resolution and detail by decomposing an image into multiple frequency components and reconstructing an enhanced version through controlled blending of these components. The process involves a pyramidal data structure with multiple resolution levels, where each level contains frequency-isolated representations of the image. The reconstruction begins with an upward pass through the pyramid, starting from the next-to-lowest resolution level and progressing to higher resolutions. At each level, the frequency-isolated representation is modified, and the blended representation from the next lower resolution level is upsampled. These two representations are then blended to produce a frequency-blended representation at the current level. This blending process continues iteratively across all levels, with the lowest pyramid level also serving as a blended residue representation. The final enhanced image is derived from one or more of these frequency-blended representations. The method ensures smooth transitions between resolution levels while preserving fine details, resulting in an improved image with enhanced clarity and sharpness. The blending process is designed to minimize artifacts and maintain natural image characteristics.
4. The method of claim 2 , the deconstructing further comprising tuning the downsampling of the downward pass and the upsampling of the upward pass to best isolate a Nyquist frequency only and not lower frequency content in each Frequency Isolation Image.
This invention relates to image processing techniques for isolating specific frequency components in an image. The problem addressed is the difficulty in accurately extracting high-frequency details, particularly the Nyquist frequency, without contaminating the result with lower-frequency content. The method involves a multi-scale decomposition process that separates an input image into multiple Frequency Isolation Images, each containing distinct frequency bands. A key aspect is the tuning of downsampling in the downward pass and upsampling in the upward pass to precisely isolate the Nyquist frequency in each resulting image. This ensures that only the target high-frequency components are retained, while lower frequencies are excluded. The process leverages a hierarchical structure where the image is progressively decomposed and reconstructed, with careful control over sampling rates to maintain frequency purity. This approach is particularly useful in applications requiring sharp feature extraction, such as medical imaging, remote sensing, or high-resolution display optimization. The tuning step is critical to avoid aliasing and ensure that each Frequency Isolation Image contains only the intended frequency range, improving the accuracy of subsequent analysis or processing tasks.
5. The method of claim 1 , the reconstructing further comprising performing spatially localized tonemapping.
A method for image processing involves reconstructing high dynamic range (HDR) images from low dynamic range (LDR) input data, particularly for display on devices with limited dynamic range. The method addresses the challenge of preserving visual quality and detail in HDR content when rendered on standard displays. The reconstruction process includes spatially localized tonemapping, which adjusts brightness and contrast in specific regions of the image to enhance perceptual quality. This localized approach ensures that bright and dark areas are rendered with improved clarity and contrast, avoiding the loss of detail that can occur with global tonemapping techniques. The method may also incorporate additional steps such as dynamic range compression, color grading, or noise reduction to further optimize the output for display. By applying tonemapping in a spatially adaptive manner, the method improves the visual fidelity of HDR content on LDR displays, making it suitable for applications in digital imaging, video processing, and display technologies.
6. The method of claim 1 , the reconstructing further comprising performing noise filtration.
A method for reconstructing data, particularly in signal processing or imaging applications, addresses the challenge of accurately recovering original data from corrupted or incomplete measurements. The method involves reconstructing data from a set of measurements, where the measurements may be noisy, incomplete, or otherwise degraded. The reconstruction process includes applying noise filtration techniques to improve the quality of the reconstructed data. Noise filtration removes or reduces unwanted noise present in the measurements, enhancing the accuracy and reliability of the reconstructed output. This method is particularly useful in applications such as medical imaging, wireless communications, and sensor data processing, where signal integrity is critical. By incorporating noise filtration into the reconstruction process, the method ensures that the final output is a more accurate representation of the original data, even when the input measurements are compromised. The technique may involve various noise reduction algorithms, such as filtering, smoothing, or statistical methods, tailored to the specific characteristics of the data and the noise present. The overall goal is to achieve a high-fidelity reconstruction that minimizes errors introduced by noise and other distortions.
7. The method of claim 1 , the reconstructing further comprising performing multi-resolution contrast manipulation.
A method for image reconstruction enhances visual quality by incorporating multi-resolution contrast manipulation. The technique addresses the challenge of preserving fine details and improving clarity in reconstructed images, particularly in applications like medical imaging, satellite imagery, or digital photography where contrast variations across different scales are critical. The process involves analyzing and adjusting contrast at multiple resolution levels, ensuring that both high-frequency details (such as edges and textures) and low-frequency structures (such as overall brightness and shading) are optimized. By dynamically modifying contrast based on spatial frequency, the method avoids over-amplification of noise while enhancing perceptually important features. This approach integrates seamlessly with existing image reconstruction pipelines, improving visual fidelity without requiring additional hardware or excessive computational overhead. The technique is particularly useful in scenarios where traditional contrast enhancement methods fail to balance detail preservation with noise suppression. The method can be applied to various imaging modalities, including but not limited to computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and synthetic aperture radar, where accurate contrast representation is essential for interpretation and analysis.
8. The method of claim 1 , the reconstructing further comprising performing multi-resolution clarity manipulation.
A method for image or video processing involves reconstructing visual data with enhanced clarity through multi-resolution clarity manipulation. The technique addresses the challenge of preserving fine details and improving visual quality in reconstructed images or video frames, particularly when dealing with compressed or degraded source material. The reconstruction process includes analyzing the input data at multiple resolution levels to identify and enhance clarity at different scales. This involves applying adaptive filtering or sharpening techniques tailored to each resolution level, ensuring that both coarse and fine details are optimized. The method may also incorporate noise reduction or artifact suppression to further refine the output. By dynamically adjusting clarity manipulation based on resolution-dependent characteristics, the approach achieves a balanced enhancement that avoids over-processing or introducing unnatural artifacts. The technique is applicable to various applications, including medical imaging, surveillance, and multimedia content restoration, where high-quality visual reconstruction is critical. The multi-resolution approach ensures that clarity improvements are consistent across different levels of detail, resulting in a more natural and visually pleasing output.
9. The method of claim 1 , the reconstructing further comprising performing dynamic headroom management.
A system and method for dynamic headroom management in wireless communication networks addresses the challenge of efficiently allocating resources to maintain signal quality and reliability under varying network conditions. The invention involves dynamically adjusting the headroom, or the excess capacity reserved for signal fluctuations, to optimize performance without unnecessary resource waste. This includes monitoring network conditions, such as signal strength, interference levels, and traffic load, to determine the optimal headroom allocation in real time. By dynamically adjusting headroom, the system ensures that communication links maintain sufficient quality while maximizing spectral efficiency. The method may also incorporate predictive algorithms to anticipate changes in network conditions and preemptively adjust headroom to prevent signal degradation. This approach is particularly useful in dense wireless networks where static headroom settings may lead to either excessive resource consumption or insufficient signal quality. The dynamic headroom management system enhances overall network performance by balancing reliability and efficiency, reducing latency, and improving user experience in real-time communication scenarios.
10. The method of claim 1 , the reconstructing further comprising performing smart brightness control that spatially constrains brightness to prevent clipping.
This invention relates to image processing techniques for enhancing visual quality, particularly in high dynamic range (HDR) imaging systems. The problem addressed is the occurrence of brightness clipping, where excessive brightness in certain regions of an image leads to loss of detail and visual artifacts. The solution involves a method for reconstructing images with improved brightness control, ensuring that brightness levels are spatially constrained to avoid clipping while preserving visual fidelity. The method includes a smart brightness control mechanism that dynamically adjusts brightness distribution across the image. This control ensures that bright regions do not exceed a predefined threshold, preventing clipping while maintaining natural-looking contrast. The spatial constraint aspect means that brightness adjustments are applied in a localized manner, avoiding global overcorrection that could degrade image quality. The technique may be integrated into existing image processing pipelines, such as those used in HDR rendering, tone mapping, or display calibration systems. The result is an image with enhanced brightness uniformity and detail retention, particularly in high-contrast scenes. This approach is useful in applications like digital photography, video production, and display technologies where maintaining visual quality is critical.
11. The method of claim 1 , the reconstructing further comprising performing spatial manipulation of at least one of: color values; saturation; and color gamut management.
This invention relates to image processing techniques for reconstructing visual data, particularly in systems where image quality may degrade due to compression, transmission, or display limitations. The method addresses the problem of maintaining visual fidelity by enhancing reconstructed images through spatial manipulation of color attributes. The process involves adjusting color values, saturation levels, and color gamut parameters to improve perceptual quality. By dynamically modifying these attributes, the system compensates for distortions introduced during image processing, ensuring more accurate and visually pleasing reconstructions. The spatial manipulation may include localized adjustments to color balance, contrast, or hue to correct artifacts or enhance natural appearance. Additionally, the method may integrate color gamut management to ensure compatibility with different display devices while preserving intended visual characteristics. This approach is particularly useful in applications like digital imaging, video streaming, and medical imaging, where color accuracy and visual clarity are critical. The technique optimizes image reconstruction by leveraging spatial color processing to mitigate degradation effects, resulting in higher-quality output.
12. The method of claim 1 , the reconstructing further comprising performing spatial local tonemapping adjustments to improve spatial color gamut management.
This invention relates to image processing techniques for enhancing spatial color gamut management in digital images. The method addresses the challenge of maintaining accurate and visually pleasing color representation across different display devices and lighting conditions by dynamically adjusting tone mapping locally within the image. The process involves analyzing the spatial distribution of colors in the image to identify areas where color gamut limitations may cause distortion or loss of detail. By applying localized tonemapping adjustments, the method ensures that colors remain within the displayable range while preserving contrast and visual fidelity. This approach improves color consistency and reduces artifacts such as clipping or banding, particularly in high-dynamic-range (HDR) content. The technique can be integrated into image processing pipelines for displays, cameras, or other imaging systems to optimize color reproduction. The method may also include preprocessing steps to analyze image content and post-processing steps to refine the adjusted tones, ensuring a balanced and natural appearance. The spatial local tonemapping adjustments are applied in a way that adapts to the specific characteristics of the input image, such as brightness, saturation, and local contrast, to achieve optimal results. This enhances the overall viewing experience by delivering more accurate and vibrant colors across various devices and environments.
13. The method of claim 1 , the reconstructing further comprising generating photographic masks for use in conventional photographic printing.
This invention relates to a method for reconstructing and processing image data, particularly for generating photographic masks used in conventional photographic printing. The method addresses the challenge of converting digital image data into a format compatible with traditional photographic printing techniques, which often require specific mask-based workflows. The method involves reconstructing image data to produce photographic masks, which are physical or digital templates used in photographic printing to control light exposure during the printing process. These masks typically define areas of the image that should be exposed or blocked during printing, allowing for precise control over the final printed output. The reconstruction process may include steps such as adjusting image resolution, correcting color balance, or optimizing contrast to ensure the masks accurately represent the original image data. Additionally, the method may involve generating multiple masks for different color channels (e.g., cyan, magenta, yellow, and black) to facilitate full-color printing. Each mask is designed to correspond to a specific color layer, ensuring accurate color reproduction when the layers are combined during printing. The masks may be output as digital files or printed on transparent materials, depending on the specific requirements of the photographic printing system being used. This method is particularly useful in scenarios where digital image data must be integrated into traditional photographic workflows, such as in high-end art reproduction, film-based photography, or specialized printing applications. By enabling the generation of photographic masks from digital sources, the method bridges the gap between digital and analog printing technologies.
14. The method of claim 1 , the reconstructing further comprising generating physical masks of attenuating material of spatially varying depth for use in spatially attenuating rays used for imaging.
This invention relates to a method for generating physical masks of attenuating material with spatially varying depth to control the attenuation of rays used in imaging systems. The method addresses the challenge of precisely modulating radiation or light rays in imaging applications, such as computed tomography (CT) or other radiographic techniques, where uniform attenuation is insufficient for achieving desired image quality or diagnostic accuracy. The process involves creating masks with regions of varying material depth to selectively attenuate rays passing through different areas of the imaging system. These masks are designed to compensate for inconsistencies in ray intensity, improve contrast, or reduce artifacts in the final image. The spatially varying depth of the attenuating material ensures that rays are attenuated in a controlled manner, allowing for more accurate reconstruction of the imaged object. The method may include steps such as determining the required attenuation profile based on the imaging system's specifications, designing the mask geometry to achieve the desired attenuation, and fabricating the mask using materials with known attenuation properties. The resulting masks can be integrated into imaging systems to enhance performance by optimizing ray attenuation during the imaging process. This approach is particularly useful in medical imaging, industrial inspection, and other fields where precise control of radiation or light is critical for obtaining high-quality images.
15. The method of claim 1 , the reconstructing further comprising performing focus accuracy estimation and providing hinting for focus adjustments.
A method for image or video processing involves reconstructing visual data with enhanced focus accuracy. The technique addresses the challenge of maintaining sharpness and clarity in captured or processed images, particularly in scenarios where focus may be inconsistent or degraded. The reconstruction process includes analyzing the visual data to estimate focus accuracy, identifying areas where focus may be suboptimal. Based on this estimation, the method provides hinting or guidance for focus adjustments, which can be used to refine the reconstruction or inform subsequent imaging operations. This may involve adjusting focus parameters, applying computational corrections, or generating metadata to assist in post-processing. The focus accuracy estimation may leverage algorithms that analyze edge sharpness, contrast, or other visual features to determine focus quality. The hinting mechanism may include generating focus adjustment recommendations, highlighting regions requiring correction, or providing feedback to imaging systems for real-time or offline adjustments. The overall approach aims to improve the visual quality of the reconstructed output by dynamically addressing focus-related artifacts.
16. The method of claim 1 , the reconstructing further comprising performing viewer control of enhancement.
A system and method for image or video enhancement involves reconstructing a processed image or video with improved visual quality. The method addresses the challenge of enhancing visual content while maintaining natural appearance and reducing artifacts. The reconstruction process includes applying adaptive filtering to adjust brightness, contrast, sharpness, or color balance based on scene analysis. The system also incorporates viewer control of enhancement, allowing users to adjust enhancement parameters in real-time to customize the output according to personal preferences or specific viewing conditions. This interactive control enables dynamic adjustments to enhancement levels, ensuring optimal visual quality for different users and environments. The method may be applied to various imaging applications, including digital photography, video processing, and medical imaging, to improve clarity and detail in the final output. The system dynamically analyzes input data to determine optimal enhancement settings, reducing the need for manual adjustments while providing flexibility for user customization.
17. The method of claim 1 , the reconstructing further comprising performing frequency morphing with a plurality of images.
This invention relates to image reconstruction techniques, particularly for enhancing image quality in medical imaging systems such as computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The problem addressed is the degradation of image quality due to factors like noise, artifacts, or limited resolution, which can obscure diagnostic details. The solution involves a method for reconstructing images from raw imaging data, where the reconstruction process includes frequency morphing. Frequency morphing adjusts the frequency components of the image to improve clarity and reduce distortions. The method further involves using multiple images to refine the reconstruction, ensuring that the final output is more accurate and visually coherent. By analyzing and modifying the frequency domain characteristics of the images, the technique enhances structural details and suppresses unwanted artifacts. This approach is particularly useful in medical imaging, where high-fidelity images are critical for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. The method may also incorporate additional processing steps, such as noise reduction or artifact correction, to further optimize image quality. The use of multiple images in the reconstruction process helps mitigate inconsistencies and improves the robustness of the final output. Overall, the invention provides a more reliable and precise image reconstruction technique for medical imaging applications.
18. The method of claim 1 , wherein the image is obtained from at least a portion of a video stream, and wherein the image includes a time domain dimension.
This invention relates to image processing, specifically for analyzing images derived from video streams. The core problem addressed is the need to extract and process temporal information from video frames, which inherently contain a time domain dimension. The method involves obtaining an image from at least a portion of a video stream, where the image includes a time domain dimension. This means the image is not just a static frame but incorporates temporal data, such as motion, changes over time, or sequential frame information. The method further includes analyzing this time-domain data to derive insights, such as object tracking, motion detection, or temporal pattern recognition. The invention may also involve preprocessing the video stream to enhance the time-domain dimension, such as by stabilizing frames, interpolating missing data, or applying temporal filters. The goal is to improve the accuracy and robustness of image analysis by leveraging temporal information, which is particularly useful in applications like surveillance, autonomous navigation, and video analytics. The method may be implemented in real-time systems or offline processing pipelines, depending on the application requirements.
19. The method of claim 1 , wherein the method for enhancing the identified image includes processing of parametric databases of a plurality of dimensions and a plurality of varying component parameters, and wherein the identified image and the enhanced image are such parametric databases having a selected number of dimensions and a selected number of component parameters.
This invention relates to image enhancement techniques involving parametric databases. The method addresses the challenge of improving image quality by leveraging structured data representations. The core approach involves processing parametric databases that define images using multiple dimensions and varying component parameters. These databases serve as both input and output, where an identified image is transformed into an enhanced version through this parametric processing. The method ensures that both the original and enhanced images are represented as parametric databases, allowing for flexible manipulation of dimensions and component parameters. This technique enables precise control over image enhancement by adjusting the database structure, facilitating applications in fields requiring high-fidelity image processing, such as medical imaging, remote sensing, or computer vision. The parametric approach allows for scalable and adaptable image enhancement, accommodating different levels of detail and complexity. By treating images as parametric databases, the method supports dynamic adjustments to improve visual quality while maintaining structural integrity. This solution enhances traditional image processing by integrating structured data representations, offering a more systematic and customizable enhancement process.
20. The method of claim 1 , wherein the method for enhancing the identified image includes multi-resolution co-processing of inter-related parameters.
This invention relates to image enhancement techniques, specifically methods for improving the quality of identified images by analyzing and processing multiple inter-related parameters at different resolutions. The core problem addressed is the limited effectiveness of traditional single-resolution image enhancement methods, which often fail to capture fine details or global structures simultaneously. The solution involves a multi-resolution co-processing approach, where different aspects of the image (such as edges, textures, and color distributions) are processed at varying scales to optimize overall quality. This method ensures that both high-frequency details and low-frequency structures are preserved and enhanced. The technique may include decomposing the image into multiple resolution levels, applying specialized processing to each level, and then recombining the results. The inter-related parameters may include spatial, frequency-domain, or statistical features, which are processed in parallel or sequentially to achieve a balanced enhancement. This approach improves visual clarity, reduces artifacts, and adapts to different image types and conditions. The method is particularly useful in applications requiring high-fidelity image reproduction, such as medical imaging, satellite imagery, and digital photography. By leveraging multi-resolution analysis, the invention provides a more robust and flexible enhancement process compared to conventional single-resolution techniques.
21. The method of claim 1 , further comprising enhancing at least one image in at least one of: a jpeg image encoding engine; a mpeg image encoding engine; a jpeg image decoding engine; a mpeg image decoding engine; and any other codec engine.
This invention relates to image processing, specifically enhancing images during encoding or decoding in various codec engines. The core method involves applying image enhancement techniques to improve visual quality while maintaining compatibility with standard encoding and decoding processes. The enhancement can be applied in JPEG or MPEG encoding engines, JPEG or MPEG decoding engines, or any other codec engine. The enhancement may include operations such as noise reduction, sharpening, contrast adjustment, or other image quality improvements. By integrating these enhancements directly into the codec pipeline, the method ensures that the processed images retain high quality without requiring separate post-processing steps. This approach optimizes computational efficiency and reduces latency, as the enhancement is performed concurrently with the encoding or decoding process. The invention is particularly useful in applications where real-time image processing is required, such as video streaming, digital photography, and multimedia communication. The method ensures that the enhanced images remain compatible with existing standards and devices, avoiding the need for additional hardware or software modifications.
22. The method of claim 1 , further comprising sharing through a shared interface at least one of the pyramid, data, computations, and results of computations with at least one of an image codec, video stabilization, face detection, pattern recognition function, or other local tonemapping or image enhancement function on a spatial frequency basis.
This invention relates to image processing systems that utilize a multi-resolution pyramid structure to enhance computational efficiency and accuracy. The core technology involves generating a pyramid representation of an image, where each level of the pyramid corresponds to a different spatial frequency band. This pyramid structure enables efficient processing of image data across multiple scales, improving tasks such as image enhancement, stabilization, and feature detection. The method further includes sharing the pyramid, its underlying data, intermediate computations, or final results with various image processing functions. These functions may include image codecs, video stabilization algorithms, face detection systems, pattern recognition modules, or local tonemapping and image enhancement operations. By leveraging the pyramid structure, these functions can operate on specific spatial frequency bands, allowing for more precise and adaptive processing. This approach reduces redundant computations and improves overall system performance by enabling seamless integration between different image processing tasks. The shared interface ensures compatibility and efficient data exchange between the pyramid-based processing and other specialized functions, enhancing the flexibility and efficiency of the entire image processing pipeline.
23. The method of claim 1 , wherein the method is performed by a plug-in or part of a still picture, video, or database editing or viewing function.
This invention relates to a method for enhancing the functionality of digital media editing or viewing systems, particularly for still images, videos, or databases. The method involves integrating a plug-in or built-in feature that enables advanced editing or viewing capabilities within existing software applications. The core functionality includes processing digital media content to improve user interaction, such as optimizing display settings, applying filters, or managing metadata. The method ensures seamless integration with the host application, allowing users to access these features without disrupting their workflow. The system may also include automated adjustments based on user preferences or content analysis, enhancing efficiency and user experience. The invention addresses the need for flexible, modular enhancements in digital media tools, providing a scalable solution for both professional and consumer applications. The method supports various file formats and platforms, ensuring broad compatibility. By embedding these features directly into editing or viewing functions, the invention streamlines workflows and reduces the need for external tools. The system may also include user customization options, allowing tailored adjustments to meet specific needs. The overall goal is to improve productivity and creativity in digital media handling.
24. The method of claim 1 , further comprising configuring the method for low latency.
A system and method for optimizing data processing in a distributed computing environment addresses the challenge of efficiently managing and processing large-scale data across multiple nodes while minimizing latency. The method involves distributing data processing tasks among a plurality of computing nodes, where each node performs a portion of the overall computation. To enhance performance, the method includes dynamically adjusting the distribution of tasks based on real-time system conditions, such as node availability, network bandwidth, and computational load. This dynamic allocation ensures that tasks are assigned to the most suitable nodes, reducing bottlenecks and improving overall efficiency. Additionally, the method incorporates techniques for low-latency processing, which may include prioritizing time-sensitive tasks, optimizing data transfer protocols, and minimizing communication overhead between nodes. By reducing delays in task execution and data transmission, the system ensures that critical operations are completed within strict time constraints. The method may also employ predictive algorithms to anticipate future workload demands and pre-allocate resources accordingly, further enhancing responsiveness. The system is designed to be scalable, allowing it to handle increasing data volumes and computational demands without significant performance degradation. It supports various data processing frameworks and can be integrated into existing distributed computing infrastructures. The method is particularly useful in applications requiring real-time data analysis, such as financial trading, autonomous systems, and large-scale simulations.
25. The method of claim 1 , further comprising utilizing at least one programmable unit interval transform (PUTT) that takes an input value in the unit interval range and produces an output value in the unit interval range by performing at least one of a fixed function and a programmable function, and wherein the programmable unit interval transform is used for at least one of a control mechanism and a user interface.
This invention relates to signal processing and user interface systems, specifically addressing the need for flexible and programmable transformations of input values within the unit interval range [0,1]. The method involves using at least one programmable unit interval transform (PUTT) to process input values, where the PUTT can apply either a fixed function or a programmable function to produce an output value that remains within the same unit interval range. The PUTT can be configured to perform various mathematical operations, such as linear scaling, nonlinear mappings, or custom transformations, depending on the application requirements. The output of the PUTT is then used for control mechanisms or user interface interactions, enabling dynamic adjustments and real-time feedback. This approach allows for adaptable signal processing and interface behavior, improving system responsiveness and user experience. The PUTT can be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of both, and its programmability ensures compatibility with different control and interface scenarios. The invention enhances the flexibility and precision of signal transformations in applications such as audio processing, graphical user interfaces, and control systems.
26. The method of claim 1 , further comprising performing the method in a system on a chip (SOC) for inclusion in at least one of a television and a monitor to apply to at least one of broadcast content, playback content, and video game inputs.
This invention relates to a system-on-chip (SOC) for processing video signals in consumer electronics, such as televisions and monitors. The SOC is designed to handle various types of video inputs, including broadcast content, playback content, and video game inputs. The system integrates multiple processing functions into a single chip to enhance video quality, reduce latency, and improve overall performance. The SOC may include components for decoding, scaling, and enhancing video signals, as well as interfaces for connecting to different types of video sources. By consolidating these functions into an SOC, the invention aims to streamline video processing in consumer devices, reducing power consumption and manufacturing costs while improving efficiency. The system is particularly useful in applications where real-time video processing is required, such as gaming or high-definition broadcasting. The SOC may also support multiple video standards and formats, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices and content sources.
27. The method of claim 1 , further comprising performing the method in video games as a post-rendering operation to achieve at least one of: local tonemapping; increased apparent dynamic range; enhanced clarity; enhanced shape and contour perception; enhanced depth perception; and managing gamut for best saturation without gamut excursions.
This invention relates to post-rendering image processing techniques for video games, specifically enhancing visual quality through advanced tonemapping and dynamic range management. The method addresses limitations in traditional rendering pipelines by applying post-rendering operations to improve visual fidelity without altering the underlying rendering process. Key enhancements include local tonemapping to optimize brightness and contrast, increased apparent dynamic range for richer visual detail, and improved clarity and shape perception through refined edge and contour adjustments. The technique also enhances depth perception by manipulating spatial cues and manages color gamut to maximize saturation while avoiding unwanted color excursions. These improvements are achieved through computational adjustments applied after the primary rendering stage, ensuring compatibility with existing game engines and graphics pipelines. The method is particularly useful in video games where real-time performance is critical, as it provides high-quality visual enhancements without significant computational overhead. By leveraging post-rendering operations, the technique offers a flexible solution for developers to enhance visual quality across various gaming platforms and hardware configurations.
28. An apparatus, comprising, a deconstructor that deconstructs an image into a frequency-based spatial domain representation utilizing a pyramidal data structure that includes a plurality of levels on a frequency-by-frequency basis and wherein a portion of the levels each includes an associated Frequency Isolation Image (FII); and a reconstructor that reconstructs an enhanced image from the frequency-based spatial domain representation utilizing a frequency blender to amplify selected frequency levels of the frequency-based spatial domain representation by applying amplification to the FIT to enhance contrast to augment low spatial frequency perception of contours and depth, and wherein the frequency blender avoids exceeding available dynamic range at each level.
This invention relates to image processing, specifically enhancing image contrast and depth perception by manipulating frequency-based spatial domain representations. The apparatus includes a deconstructor that breaks down an image into a frequency-based spatial domain representation using a pyramidal data structure with multiple levels, each level corresponding to different frequency components. Some levels contain Frequency Isolation Images (FIIs), which isolate specific frequency bands. A reconstructor then reassembles the image from this representation, using a frequency blender to amplify selected frequency levels. The blender enhances contrast by amplifying the FIIs, particularly low spatial frequencies, to improve contour and depth perception. The amplification process is controlled to avoid exceeding the dynamic range at each level, ensuring visual quality is maintained. The system dynamically adjusts frequency amplification to preserve image fidelity while enhancing perceptual features. This approach allows for selective enhancement of specific frequency components, improving visual clarity and depth without introducing artifacts. The invention is useful in applications requiring high-contrast imaging, such as medical imaging, surveillance, or high-dynamic-range photography.
29. The apparatus of claim 28 , wherein the deconstructor comprises: a downsampling phase deconstructor that performs a downward pass that operates on the plurality of levels of the pyramidal data structure on a sequential resolution-by-resolution basis from higher to lower resolution using a downsampler to downsample at each level other than a lowest level to generate a lower resolution downsampled instance for that level, wherein a highest level instance is the image, and the lowest level downsampled instance is also called the residue instance; and a upsampling phase deconstructor that performs an upward pass in a sequential resolution-by-resolution basis from lower to higher resolution and starting at a next-to-lowest resolution level, and comprising an upsampler to upsample a next lower resolution downsampled instance at each level to generate an upsampled representation for that level, and comprising a difference generator to subtract the upsampled representation from the downsampled instance to generate a frequency isolation representation for that pyramid level.
This invention relates to image processing, specifically a deconstruction apparatus for analyzing images using a pyramidal data structure. The apparatus addresses the challenge of efficiently decomposing an image into multiple resolution levels to isolate frequency components, which is useful for tasks like image compression, enhancement, or feature extraction. The deconstructor operates in two phases: a downsampling phase and an upsampling phase. In the downsampling phase, the apparatus processes the image from higher to lower resolution levels. A downsampler reduces the resolution of each level except the lowest, generating a lower-resolution downsampled instance for each level. The highest-level instance is the original image, while the lowest-level downsampled instance is referred to as the residue instance. In the upsampling phase, the apparatus processes the data from lower to higher resolution levels, starting just above the lowest resolution. An upsampler increases the resolution of the next lower-resolution downsampled instance at each level, producing an upsampled representation. A difference generator then subtracts this upsampled representation from the downsampled instance of the current level, creating a frequency isolation representation for that level. This process effectively separates frequency components across the pyramidal structure, enabling detailed analysis or manipulation of the image at different scales.
30. The apparatus of claim 28 , wherein the reconstructor comprises: a upsampling phase reconstructor that performs an upward pass that operates on the plurality of levels of the pyramidal data structure on a sequential resolution-by-resolution basis from lower to higher resolution and starting at the next-to-lowest resolution level, to produce a frequency blended representation at each resolution level, and wherein a residue instance also constitutes a blended representation at the lowest pyramid level, and wherein the upsampling phase reconstructor comprises: an aggregate contrast factor processor that processes the frequency isolated representation at that pyramid level to generate a modified frequency isolated representation; an aggregate headroom factor processor that upsamples the frequency blended representation for the next lower resolution pyramid level, to generate a modified blended representation; wherein the frequency blender blends the modified frequency isolated representation at that pyramid level with the modified blended representation to generate frequency blended representation at that pyramid level; and wherein the reconstructor returns one or more of the frequency blended representations as the enhanced image.
This invention relates to image processing, specifically to an apparatus for reconstructing an enhanced image from a pyramidal data structure. The problem addressed is efficiently reconstructing high-quality images from multi-resolution data while preserving fine details and avoiding artifacts. The apparatus includes a reconstructor that processes a pyramidal data structure containing multiple resolution levels of image data. The reconstructor performs an upward pass through the pyramid, starting from the next-to-lowest resolution level and moving sequentially to higher resolutions. At each level, it generates a frequency blended representation by combining frequency-isolated and blended representations. The reconstructor includes an upsampling phase reconstructor with three key components: an aggregate contrast factor processor, an aggregate headroom factor processor, and a frequency blender. The contrast factor processor modifies the frequency-isolated representation at the current pyramid level. The headroom factor processor upsamples the blended representation from the next lower resolution level to generate a modified blended representation. The frequency blender then combines these modified representations to produce the frequency blended representation at the current level. The residue at the lowest pyramid level also serves as a blended representation. The reconstructor outputs one or more of these blended representations as the final enhanced image. This approach ensures smooth transitions between resolution levels while maintaining high-frequency details.
31. The apparatus of claim 29 , further comprising tuned downsamplers and upsamplers to best isolate a Nyquist frequency only and exclude frequency content from other frequencies at each frequency level in the downward and upward passes, respectively.
This invention relates to signal processing systems, specifically apparatuses for efficient frequency domain analysis and reconstruction. The problem addressed is the need to isolate and process specific frequency components, particularly the Nyquist frequency, while excluding unwanted frequency content during both downsampling and upsampling operations in multirate signal processing. The apparatus includes tuned downsamplers and upsamplers designed to precisely isolate the Nyquist frequency at each processing stage. During the downward pass, the tuned downsamplers selectively filter and downsample the signal to retain only the Nyquist frequency while rejecting other frequency components. Similarly, during the upward pass, the tuned upsamplers reconstruct the signal by upsampling and filtering to preserve only the Nyquist frequency at each frequency level. This selective processing ensures that only the desired frequency content is propagated through the system, improving signal fidelity and computational efficiency. The apparatus may be part of a larger system that performs multirate filtering, such as wavelet transforms or subband coding, where precise frequency isolation is critical. By using tuned downsamplers and upsamplers, the system avoids aliasing and distortion that can occur when unwanted frequencies are present during resampling operations. The invention is particularly useful in applications requiring high-precision frequency analysis, such as audio processing, telecommunications, and medical imaging.
32. The apparatus of claim 28 , wherein the reconstructor performs spatially localized tonemapping.
This invention relates to image processing systems, specifically apparatuses for enhancing image quality by performing spatially localized tonemapping. The problem addressed is the need to improve dynamic range and visual quality in images, particularly in high dynamic range (HDR) content, by adjusting brightness and contrast in a spatially adaptive manner. The apparatus includes a reconstructor that processes image data to apply tonemapping operations. The reconstructor performs spatially localized tonemapping, meaning it adjusts tone and contrast based on local regions of the image rather than applying uniform adjustments across the entire image. This approach helps preserve details in both bright and dark areas while avoiding artifacts like haloing or unnatural transitions. The apparatus may also include a preprocessor that conditions the input image data before tonemapping, such as by applying noise reduction or color correction. Additionally, a post-processor may refine the tonemapped output, such as by sharpening or enhancing local contrast. The reconstructor dynamically determines tonemapping parameters for each region of the image, ensuring that adjustments are context-aware and visually coherent. This invention is particularly useful in applications requiring high-quality image reproduction, such as digital photography, video processing, and display systems. By using spatially localized tonemapping, the apparatus improves the perceptual quality of images while maintaining computational efficiency.
33. The apparatus of claim 28 , wherein the reconstructor performs noise filtration.
This invention relates to an apparatus for processing signals, particularly for reconstructing signals from received data while reducing noise. The apparatus includes a reconstructor that processes input signals to generate an output signal, where the reconstructor is configured to perform noise filtration to improve the quality of the reconstructed signal. The noise filtration may involve techniques such as filtering out unwanted frequency components, reducing random noise, or enhancing signal clarity. The apparatus may also include a receiver for capturing input signals and a processor for further refining the reconstructed signal. The noise filtration step ensures that the final output signal is cleaner and more accurate, addressing the problem of noise interference in signal reconstruction. This technology is applicable in fields such as communications, imaging, and sensor systems where signal integrity is critical. The apparatus may be part of a larger system designed for real-time signal processing or data acquisition, where minimizing noise is essential for reliable performance.
34. The apparatus of claim 28 , wherein the reconstructor performs multi-resolution contrast manipulation.
This invention relates to image processing systems, specifically apparatuses for enhancing image quality by adjusting contrast at multiple resolution levels. The problem addressed is the need for improved contrast manipulation in images, particularly to enhance details across different scales while preserving natural appearance. The apparatus includes a reconstructor that processes an input image to generate an output image with enhanced contrast. The reconstructor performs multi-resolution contrast manipulation, which involves analyzing and adjusting contrast at different resolution levels of the image. This technique allows for fine-tuning of contrast in both fine details and broader structures, avoiding over-amplification or loss of detail that can occur with single-resolution methods. The apparatus may also include a decomposer that decomposes the input image into multiple resolution components, such as high-frequency and low-frequency components, before contrast manipulation. A combiner then merges the processed components to form the final output image. The multi-resolution approach ensures that contrast adjustments are applied appropriately to each scale, improving overall image clarity and visual appeal. This invention is particularly useful in applications requiring high-quality image enhancement, such as medical imaging, photography, and digital displays, where preserving detail across different scales is critical. The multi-resolution contrast manipulation provides a more balanced and natural-looking enhancement compared to traditional single-resolution techniques.
35. The apparatus of claim 28 , wherein the reconstructor performs multi-resolution clarity manipulation.
This invention relates to image processing systems, specifically apparatuses for reconstructing images with enhanced clarity. The problem addressed is the need for improved image reconstruction techniques that can adaptively adjust image clarity across different resolutions to optimize visual quality. The apparatus includes a reconstructor that processes input image data to generate a reconstructed image. The reconstructor performs multi-resolution clarity manipulation, which involves analyzing the image at multiple resolution levels and selectively enhancing or reducing clarity based on the resolution. This allows for finer details to be preserved in high-resolution regions while smoothing out lower-resolution areas to reduce noise or artifacts. The apparatus may also include a preprocessor to condition the input image data before reconstruction and a post-processor to refine the reconstructed image further. The multi-resolution clarity manipulation technique dynamically adjusts clarity parameters such as sharpness, contrast, or noise reduction based on the spatial frequency content of the image. This ensures that the reconstructed image maintains optimal clarity across varying resolution levels, improving overall visual fidelity. The apparatus can be applied in medical imaging, surveillance, or high-resolution display systems where adaptive clarity enhancement is beneficial.
36. The apparatus of claim 28 , wherein the reconstructor performs dynamic headroom management.
This invention relates to signal processing systems, specifically apparatuses for reconstructing signals with dynamic headroom management. The problem addressed is the need to efficiently manage signal reconstruction while maintaining signal integrity and avoiding distortion, particularly in systems where signal levels may vary dynamically. The apparatus includes a reconstructor that processes input signals to generate an output signal. The reconstructor dynamically adjusts headroom, which refers to the available space above the maximum expected signal level, to prevent clipping or distortion while optimizing signal quality. This dynamic adjustment ensures that the reconstructor can handle varying signal amplitudes without compromising performance. The apparatus may also include a preprocessor that conditions the input signal before reconstruction, such as filtering or amplifying, to improve signal quality. Additionally, a post-processor may further refine the reconstructed signal, such as applying equalization or noise reduction. The reconstructor dynamically allocates headroom based on real-time signal analysis, ensuring that the output signal remains within safe limits while maximizing dynamic range. This invention is particularly useful in audio processing, telecommunications, and other fields where signal integrity and dynamic range management are critical. By dynamically adjusting headroom, the apparatus avoids distortion and maintains high-quality signal reconstruction under varying conditions.
37. The apparatus of claim 28 , wherein the reconstructor performs smart brightness control that spatially constrains brightness to prevent clipping.
This invention relates to image processing systems, specifically addressing the problem of brightness clipping in reconstructed images. The apparatus includes a reconstructor that processes image data to enhance visual quality while preventing excessive brightness levels that could cause clipping, where details are lost due to saturation. The reconstructor applies smart brightness control, which adjusts brightness values in a spatially constrained manner. This means brightness adjustments are localized to specific regions of the image rather than applied uniformly, ensuring that bright areas do not exceed display or sensor limits. The spatial constraints help maintain dynamic range and preserve fine details in both bright and dark regions. The apparatus may also include a preprocessor that conditions input data, such as correcting distortions or noise, before reconstruction. Additionally, a post-processor may refine the output, further enhancing sharpness or color accuracy. The system is designed for applications like medical imaging, high-dynamic-range displays, or advanced camera systems where accurate brightness representation is critical. By dynamically adjusting brightness while avoiding clipping, the invention improves image fidelity and visual comfort.
38. The apparatus of claim 28 , wherein the reconstructor performs spatial manipulation of color values and saturation.
This invention relates to image processing systems, specifically apparatuses for reconstructing images with enhanced color and saturation adjustments. The apparatus includes a reconstructor that processes image data to improve visual quality by manipulating color values and saturation levels. The spatial manipulation of color values involves adjusting the hue, intensity, or chromaticity of pixels based on their spatial relationships within the image. Saturation manipulation enhances or reduces the vividness of colors while preserving natural appearance. The reconstructor may also incorporate techniques to maintain consistency across different regions of the image, ensuring smooth transitions and avoiding unnatural artifacts. The apparatus is designed to work with various image formats and resolutions, providing flexibility for different applications. The spatial manipulation of color and saturation is performed in a way that enhances perceptual quality without introducing distortion or loss of detail. This invention addresses the challenge of improving image aesthetics while maintaining fidelity to the original content, particularly in applications like digital photography, video processing, and display technologies. The apparatus may be integrated into cameras, image editing software, or real-time video systems to deliver visually appealing results.
39. The apparatus of claim 28 , wherein the reconstructor performs spatial color gamut management.
This invention relates to image processing systems, specifically apparatuses for reconstructing images with improved color accuracy. The problem addressed is the need to accurately reproduce colors across different display devices, which often have varying color gamut capabilities. The apparatus includes a reconstructor that processes image data to ensure consistent color representation. The reconstructor performs spatial color gamut management, which involves adjusting color values based on spatial information in the image to maintain visual fidelity. This spatial approach allows for more precise color mapping compared to traditional methods that rely solely on global color transformations. The apparatus may also include a preprocessor that prepares the image data for reconstruction, such as by converting color spaces or applying initial adjustments. The reconstructor dynamically adapts color adjustments to different regions of the image, ensuring that colors remain accurate and visually pleasing across varying display conditions. This spatial color gamut management technique enhances the overall color reproduction quality, making the apparatus particularly useful in professional imaging, medical imaging, and high-end display applications.
40. The apparatus of claim 28 , wherein the reconstructor performs spatial local tonemapping adjustments as a means of improving spatial color gamut management.
This invention relates to image processing systems that enhance spatial color gamut management in reconstructed images. The apparatus includes a reconstructor that performs spatial local tonemapping adjustments to improve color accuracy and dynamic range in displayed images. The tonemapping process involves analyzing local regions of the image to adjust brightness, contrast, and color saturation while preserving spatial coherence. This technique helps maintain natural color transitions and avoids artifacts like banding or unnatural color shifts. The reconstructor may also incorporate adaptive algorithms that dynamically adjust tonemapping parameters based on image content, ensuring consistent quality across different scenes. The system is particularly useful in high dynamic range (HDR) imaging, where preserving color fidelity and contrast is critical. By applying localized adjustments, the apparatus ensures that colors remain vibrant and accurate while avoiding clipping or distortion in bright or dark regions. The overall goal is to improve visual realism and perceptual quality in displayed images.
41. The apparatus of claim 28 , wherein the reconstructor generates photographic masks for use in conventional photographic printing.
This invention relates to an apparatus for generating photographic masks used in conventional photographic printing. The apparatus includes a reconstructor that processes digital image data to produce high-quality photographic masks, which are then used in traditional photographic printing processes. The reconstructor is designed to convert digital image information into a format compatible with conventional photographic printing systems, ensuring accurate color reproduction and detail retention. The apparatus may also include components for capturing or receiving digital image data, such as scanners or digital cameras, and may further incorporate image processing modules to enhance or adjust the digital image before mask generation. The photographic masks produced by the apparatus are used in traditional darkroom printing techniques, where they are exposed onto light-sensitive photographic paper to create final prints. The invention addresses the need for integrating digital imaging technology with conventional photographic printing methods, allowing photographers to leverage digital workflows while maintaining the aesthetic qualities of traditional photographic prints. The apparatus ensures compatibility with existing photographic printing equipment, enabling seamless integration into established workflows.
42. The apparatus of claim 28 , wherein the reconstructor generates physical masks of attenuating material of spatially varying depth for use in spatially attenuating rays used for imaging.
This invention relates to imaging systems, specifically those that use physical masks to control radiation or light rays during imaging. The problem addressed is the need for precise spatial attenuation of rays to improve image quality, resolution, or other imaging parameters. The apparatus includes a reconstructor that creates physical masks made of attenuating material with spatially varying depth. These masks are designed to selectively block or reduce the intensity of rays at specific locations, allowing for controlled modulation of the imaging process. The spatially varying depth of the attenuating material ensures that different regions of the imaging field receive different levels of attenuation, enabling fine-tuned adjustments to the imaging rays. This technique can be applied in various imaging modalities, such as X-ray, computed tomography (CT), or other radiation-based imaging systems, to enhance image clarity, reduce artifacts, or optimize dose distribution. The reconstructor may use computational algorithms or predefined patterns to determine the optimal mask design for a given imaging task. The resulting masks are physical structures that can be integrated into the imaging system to achieve the desired spatial attenuation effects. This approach provides a hardware-based solution for improving imaging performance without relying solely on post-processing techniques.
43. The apparatus of claim 28 , wherein the reconstructor performs focus accuracy estimation and providing hinting for focus adjustments.
This invention relates to an apparatus for image reconstruction, particularly in systems where accurate focus is critical, such as medical imaging, microscopy, or high-resolution photography. The problem addressed is the difficulty in achieving and maintaining precise focus during image capture or reconstruction, which can lead to blurry or distorted results. The apparatus includes a reconstructor component that not only reconstructs images but also performs focus accuracy estimation to assess the sharpness and alignment of the captured or processed image. Additionally, the reconstructor provides hinting for focus adjustments, which may include suggestions for manual or automated corrections to improve focus. This hinting can be based on real-time analysis of the image data, allowing for dynamic adjustments during the imaging process. The apparatus may also include other components, such as an image capture module or a preprocessing unit, that work in conjunction with the reconstructor to enhance overall image quality. The focus accuracy estimation and hinting features help users or automated systems refine focus settings, ensuring higher-quality reconstructed images. This is particularly useful in applications where precise focus is essential for accurate analysis or interpretation of the image data.
44. The apparatus of claim 28 , further comprising user controls to perform viewer control of enhancement.
This invention relates to an apparatus for enhancing visual content, such as images or video, with user-adjustable enhancement features. The apparatus includes a display system that processes and presents visual content with enhanced visual quality, such as improved contrast, sharpness, or color accuracy. The enhancement is dynamically adjustable in real-time based on user input. The apparatus also includes user controls that allow viewers to manually adjust the level or type of enhancement applied to the displayed content. These controls may include physical buttons, touch interfaces, or remote input devices, enabling users to fine-tune the visual output according to their preferences or environmental conditions. The enhancement processing may involve algorithms that modify brightness, saturation, or other visual parameters while preserving the original content's integrity. The apparatus ensures that the enhancement adjustments are applied seamlessly, providing an optimized viewing experience without requiring external devices or complex setups. This invention addresses the need for personalized visual enhancement in display systems, allowing users to customize their viewing experience for better clarity and comfort.
45. The apparatus of claim 28 , wherein the reconstructor performs frequency morphing with a plurality of images.
This invention relates to image reconstruction techniques, specifically addressing the challenge of enhancing image quality by applying frequency morphing across multiple images. The apparatus includes a reconstructor that processes a plurality of images to improve their resolution or clarity. Frequency morphing involves modifying the frequency components of the images to achieve a desired output, such as reducing noise, sharpening details, or correcting distortions. The reconstructor may use algorithms that analyze and adjust the frequency domain representations of the images, such as Fourier or wavelet transforms, to optimize the final reconstructed image. The apparatus may also include preprocessing modules to prepare the input images for frequency morphing, such as alignment, normalization, or filtering. The reconstructed output can be used in applications like medical imaging, satellite imaging, or microscopy, where high-resolution or high-fidelity images are critical. The invention aims to provide a more accurate and detailed reconstruction by leveraging frequency-domain processing across multiple input images.
46. The apparatus of claim 28 , wherein the image is obtained from at least a portion of a video stream, and wherein the image includes a time domain dimension.
This invention relates to image processing systems that analyze video streams to extract time-domain information. The apparatus processes images obtained from video streams, where each image includes a time domain dimension, allowing temporal analysis of visual data. The system captures frames from a video stream and processes them to detect and track objects or features over time, enabling applications such as motion detection, activity recognition, or temporal pattern analysis. The apparatus may include sensors, processing units, and algorithms to interpret changes in the video stream across time, improving accuracy in dynamic environments. By incorporating time-domain data, the system enhances traditional image analysis by adding temporal context, which is critical for applications requiring real-time monitoring or historical trend analysis. The invention addresses challenges in static image processing by leveraging sequential frame data to improve object tracking, event detection, and predictive modeling in video-based systems. The apparatus may integrate with existing surveillance, automotive, or industrial monitoring systems to provide more robust temporal insights.
47. The apparatus of claim 28 , wherein the apparatus processes parametric databases of a plurality of dimensions and a plurality of varying component parameters, and wherein the identified image and the enhanced image are such parametric databases having a selected number of dimensions and a selected number of component parameters.
This invention relates to an apparatus for processing parametric databases, particularly those with multiple dimensions and varying component parameters. The apparatus is designed to handle complex datasets where each dimension and parameter can independently vary, allowing for flexible and high-dimensional data analysis. The system identifies an initial image or dataset from these parametric databases and generates an enhanced version, where both the original and enhanced outputs retain the same structural characteristics—such as dimensionality and parameter count—as the input data. This enhancement process preserves the underlying parametric relationships while improving data quality, resolution, or interpretability. The apparatus is particularly useful in fields requiring high-dimensional data manipulation, such as scientific simulations, medical imaging, or engineering design, where maintaining parametric integrity is critical. By dynamically adjusting to the input's dimensional and parametric structure, the system ensures compatibility across diverse datasets without requiring manual reconfiguration. The invention addresses the challenge of processing and enhancing multi-dimensional parametric data while preserving its inherent variability and relationships.
48. The apparatus of claim 28 , wherein the apparatus performs the co-processing of inter-related parameters.
This invention relates to an apparatus for co-processing inter-related parameters in a system where multiple parameters influence each other. The apparatus is designed to handle complex interdependencies between parameters, ensuring accurate and efficient processing. The system includes a processing unit that receives input data containing these inter-related parameters and applies a set of predefined rules or algorithms to analyze and adjust the parameters in a coordinated manner. The apparatus ensures that changes to one parameter are reflected appropriately in related parameters, maintaining system stability and performance. This is particularly useful in applications where parameter interactions are critical, such as control systems, optimization algorithms, or real-time monitoring systems. The apparatus may also include feedback mechanisms to dynamically adjust processing based on real-time data, improving adaptability. The invention addresses the challenge of managing interdependent parameters in a way that avoids conflicts and ensures consistent results.
49. The apparatus of claim 28 , wherein the apparatus is used in the pyramid processing of at least one image in-at least one of: a jpeg image encoding engine; a mpeg image encoding engine; a jpeg image decoding engine; a mpeg image decoding engine; and any other codec engine.
The invention relates to an apparatus for pyramid processing of images, particularly in the context of image encoding and decoding engines. Pyramid processing involves generating multiple resolution levels of an image, which is useful for tasks such as compression, feature extraction, and noise reduction. The apparatus is designed to efficiently handle this processing in various image and video codec engines, including JPEG and MPEG encoding and decoding systems. The apparatus may also be used in other codec engines beyond JPEG and MPEG, indicating its broad applicability across different compression standards. The core functionality involves optimizing the pyramid processing steps to improve performance, reduce computational overhead, or enhance image quality during encoding or decoding. This apparatus ensures compatibility with existing and future codec architectures, making it adaptable for use in a wide range of multimedia applications. The invention addresses the need for efficient and scalable pyramid processing in image and video compression systems, where maintaining high-quality output while minimizing processing resources is critical.
50. The apparatus of claim 28 , wherein the apparatus is used with a shared interface to share at least one of the pyramid, data, computations, and results of computations with at least one of an image codec, video stabilization function, face detection and/or pattern recognition function, other local tonemapping or image enhancement function on a spatial frequency basis.
This invention relates to an apparatus for processing image or video data, particularly for sharing computational resources and data between multiple image processing functions. The apparatus addresses the problem of redundant computations and inefficient resource utilization in systems where multiple image processing tasks, such as image coding, video stabilization, face detection, pattern recognition, and local tonemapping, operate independently. The apparatus includes a shared interface that enables the exchange of a pyramid structure, raw data, intermediate computations, or final results between these functions. The pyramid structure refers to a multi-resolution representation of the image or video data, which is commonly used in image processing for tasks like feature extraction, stabilization, and enhancement. By sharing this pyramid, data, or computational results, the apparatus reduces redundant processing, improves efficiency, and enhances performance. The shared interface allows different functions to access and utilize the same processed data or intermediate results, eliminating the need for each function to perform the same computations independently. This approach is particularly useful in systems where multiple image processing tasks are performed sequentially or in parallel, such as in real-time video processing or advanced imaging applications. The invention optimizes resource usage and computational efficiency while maintaining the accuracy and quality of the processed image or video data.
51. The apparatus of claim 28 , wherein the apparatus is configured for low latency.
This invention relates to an apparatus designed for low-latency operation, particularly in systems requiring rapid data processing and transmission. The apparatus includes a processing unit that executes tasks with minimal delay, ensuring real-time or near-real-time performance. It incorporates specialized hardware or software optimizations to reduce latency, such as parallel processing, direct memory access (DMA), or hardware acceleration. The apparatus may also include input/output interfaces that support high-speed data transfer, enabling quick communication with external devices or networks. Additionally, the apparatus may feature adaptive scheduling mechanisms to prioritize time-sensitive operations, further minimizing delays. The low-latency design is particularly useful in applications like financial trading, autonomous systems, telecommunications, and real-time analytics, where rapid response times are critical. The apparatus may also include error detection and correction mechanisms to maintain reliability while operating at high speeds. Overall, the invention provides a robust solution for environments where low latency is essential for performance and efficiency.
52. The apparatus of claim 28 , further comprising at least one programmable unit interval transform (PUIT) engine that takes an input value in the unit interval range and produces an output value in the unit interval range by performing at least one of a fixed function and a programmable function, and the programmable unit interval transform engine is used for at least one of a control mechanism and a user interface.
This invention relates to digital signal processing and user interface systems, specifically addressing the need for flexible, programmable transformations of values within the unit interval range [0, 1). The apparatus includes at least one programmable unit interval transform (PUIT) engine that processes input values in this range to produce output values also within the unit interval range. The PUIT engine can perform either fixed functions (e.g., linear scaling, quantization) or programmable functions (e.g., custom mappings defined by user-specified parameters). The engine is used for control mechanisms, such as adjusting signal levels or parameters in real-time processing, or for user interfaces, such as mapping input gestures or sensor data to output responses. The PUIT engine enhances adaptability by allowing dynamic reconfiguration of transformations without hardware changes, improving efficiency in applications like audio processing, graphics rendering, or interactive systems. The apparatus may also include other components, such as input/output interfaces or processing units, to support the PUIT engine's operations. This design enables precise, context-aware transformations of unit interval values, addressing limitations in fixed-function systems.
53. The apparatus of claim 28 , wherein the apparatus is used in a system on a chip (SOC) for inclusion in at least one of: a television; and a monitor; to apply to at least one of: broadcast content; playback; and video game inputs.
This invention relates to an apparatus integrated into a system-on-chip (SOC) for use in consumer electronics such as televisions and monitors. The apparatus processes various types of video inputs, including broadcast content, playback media, and video game signals. The SOC includes a processing unit that receives and analyzes video data to enhance display performance. The apparatus may include a video processing pipeline with components for scaling, deinterlacing, noise reduction, and color correction to optimize image quality. It may also support dynamic adjustments based on input source characteristics, ensuring compatibility with different video formats and resolutions. The SOC can be embedded in devices like smart TVs, gaming monitors, or multimedia displays, providing real-time video enhancement without external processing hardware. The invention aims to improve visual fidelity and reduce latency in consumer electronics by integrating advanced video processing directly into the chip.
54. The apparatus of claim 28 , wherein the apparatus is used in video games for post-rendering to achieve at least one of: local tonemapping; increased apparent dynamic range; enhanced clarity; enhanced shape and contour perception; enhanced depth perception; and managing gamut for best saturation without gamut excursions.
This invention relates to a post-rendering image processing apparatus for video games, designed to enhance visual quality by applying advanced image processing techniques. The apparatus improves the appearance of rendered video game scenes by performing at least one of several visual enhancements, including local tonemapping, increased apparent dynamic range, enhanced clarity, improved shape and contour perception, enhanced depth perception, and optimized gamut management to maintain saturation without unwanted color excursions. The system processes the final rendered image to achieve these effects, ensuring that the visual output is more visually appealing and immersive. By applying these techniques post-rendering, the apparatus avoids the computational overhead of real-time adjustments during rendering, making it suitable for real-time applications like video games. The enhancements help in creating more realistic and visually striking scenes, improving player experience by making details, depth, and contrast more perceptible. The apparatus can be integrated into existing rendering pipelines without requiring significant modifications, making it a flexible solution for game developers.
55. A method for enhancing a parametric database, comprising, identifying a parametric database having one or more dimensions, wherein each dimension has one or more parameters, wherein each parameter has one or more varying values, and wherein the parametric database is not restricted to color or black and white images; enhancing the parametric database utilizing a pyramid data structure that includes a plurality of levels as input to and output from a frequency blender, wherein each of the plurality of levels of the pyramid data structure includes an instance of the parametric database having a unique parameter sampling resolution, a frequency isolation representation at that resolution, and a frequency blended representation of the parametric database at that resolution; utilizing the frequency blender to perform blending of the plurality of levels of the pyramid data structure, wherein the frequency blender amplifies the frequency isolation representation for one or more parameters at selected frequency levels of the pyramidal data structure to adjust contrast to augment low spatial frequency perception of contours and depth, and wherein the frequency blender avoids exceeding available dynamic range at each level; and returning the enhanced parametric database.
This invention relates to enhancing parametric databases, particularly for improving spatial frequency perception in multi-dimensional data. The method addresses the challenge of effectively representing and manipulating data across varying resolutions while preserving dynamic range and enhancing perceptual features like contours and depth. The process begins by identifying a parametric database with multiple dimensions, each containing parameters that vary in value. The database is not limited to image data and can include any multi-dimensional dataset. A pyramid data structure is then used to enhance the database, where each level of the pyramid represents the database at a different parameter sampling resolution. Each level includes three representations: the original parametric data, a frequency-isolated version, and a frequency-blended version. A frequency blender processes these pyramid levels, amplifying specific frequency components to enhance low spatial frequency perception, which improves the visibility of contours and depth. The blender ensures that adjustments do not exceed the dynamic range at any resolution level. The final output is an enhanced parametric database with improved perceptual clarity. This approach is applicable to any parametric dataset, not just images, and provides a structured way to optimize data representation across multiple scales.
56. The method of claim 55 , further comprising: performing a downward pass that operates on the plurality of levels of the pyramidal data structure on a sequential resolution-by-resolution basis from higher to lower resolution to downsample at each level other than a lowest level to generate a lower resolution downsampled instance for that level where a highest level instance is the identified parametric database itself and the lowest level downsampled instance is also called a residue instance and also constitutes the frequency blended representation at the lowest pyramid level; performing an upward pass in a sequential resolution-by-resolution basis from lower to higher resolution and starting at a next-to-lowest resolution level, to upsample a next lower resolution downsampled instance at each level to generate an upsampled representation for that level, and subtracting the upsampled representation from the downsampled instance to generate a frequency isolation representation for that pyramid level; and performing an upward pass that operates on the plurality of levels of the pyramidal data structure on a sequential resolution-by-resolution basis from lower to higher resolution and starting at the next-to-lowest resolution level, and utilizing the frequency blender to produce the frequency blended representation at each resolution level by: modifying the frequency isolated representation at that pyramid level to generate a modified frequency isolated representation; performing at least one of: upsampling the frequency blended representation for the next lower resolution pyramid level and modifying the result; to generate a modified blending representation; and blending the modified frequency isolated representation at that pyramid level with the modified blending representation to generate the frequency blended representation at that pyramid level and returning one or more of the frequency blended representations as the enhanced parametric database.
This invention relates to a method for enhancing a parametric database using a pyramidal data structure to process data at multiple resolution levels. The method addresses the challenge of efficiently blending and isolating frequency components across different resolutions to improve data representation. The process begins with a downward pass that sequentially processes the pyramidal data structure from higher to lower resolution levels. At each level, except the lowest, the data is downsampled to generate a lower-resolution instance. The highest-level instance is the original parametric database, while the lowest-level downsampled instance is called the residue instance and serves as the frequency-blended representation at the lowest pyramid level. An upward pass then operates from lower to higher resolution levels, starting at the next-to-lowest resolution. At each level, the next lower resolution downsampled instance is upsampled to generate an upsampled representation. This upsampled representation is subtracted from the downsampled instance to produce a frequency-isolated representation for that pyramid level. Another upward pass is performed, again from lower to higher resolution, starting at the next-to-lowest level. A frequency blender modifies the frequency-isolated representation at each level to generate a modified version. The method then either upsamples the frequency-blended representation from the next lower resolution level or modifies it to create a modified blending representation. The modified frequency-isolated representation is blended with this modified blending representation to produce the final frequency-blended representation at each level. The enhanced parametric database is returned as one or more of these frequency-blended representation
57. The method of claim 55 , wherein the parametric database is an image, the instances of the parametric database having a unique parameter sampling resolutions are images, the frequency isolation representation is a frequency isolation image, the frequency blended representation is a blended image, and the enhanced parametric database is an image.
This invention relates to a method for processing parametric databases, specifically focusing on image data. The method addresses the challenge of efficiently representing and manipulating image data with varying parameter sampling resolutions. The parametric database consists of multiple instances, each with a unique parameter sampling resolution, where these instances are images. The method generates a frequency isolation representation, which is a frequency isolation image, by isolating specific frequency components from the image data. This isolated representation is then blended with the original image data to produce a frequency blended representation, which is a blended image. The result is an enhanced parametric database, which is an image with improved quality or features. The method leverages frequency domain processing to enhance image data, particularly useful in applications requiring high-resolution or multi-resolution image analysis. The technique ensures that the enhanced image retains the essential characteristics of the original while incorporating improvements from the frequency isolation and blending steps. This approach is beneficial in fields such as medical imaging, remote sensing, and computer vision, where precise image representation and enhancement are critical.
58. The method of claim 55 , further comprising reducing data space required in the pyramid data structure by utilizing a multi-purpose working data area to allow the instance of the parametric database having a unique parameter sampling resolution at a given pyramid level, be overwritten by the frequency blended representation of the parametric database at that resolution produced by the blender at that pyramid level, thereby reducing the number of data buffers from 3 to 2 at each pyramid level.
This invention relates to optimizing data storage in a pyramid data structure used for parametric databases, particularly in applications requiring multi-resolution data processing. The problem addressed is the inefficient use of memory due to redundant data buffers at each level of the pyramid structure. Traditional systems often require three separate buffers: one for the original parametric database, one for intermediate processing, and one for the final blended representation. This redundancy increases memory consumption and computational overhead. The solution involves a multi-purpose working data area that dynamically reuses memory space. At each pyramid level, the system first stores the parametric database with a unique parameter sampling resolution. This data is then processed by a blender to produce a frequency-blended representation of the parametric database at the same resolution. Instead of storing both representations separately, the original parametric data is overwritten by the blended representation in the same memory space. This approach reduces the number of required data buffers from three to two at each pyramid level, significantly decreasing memory usage without sacrificing processing efficiency. The method ensures that only the necessary data is retained at each stage, optimizing storage while maintaining the integrity of the parametric database across different resolutions. This technique is particularly useful in applications like image processing, computer vision, and real-time data analysis where memory efficiency is critical.
59. The method of claim 55 , wherein enhancing the parametric database includes tuning the downsampling of the downward pass and the upsampling of the upward passes to best isolate a Nyquist frequency only and exclude frequency content from other frequencies at each frequency level.
This invention relates to signal processing, specifically methods for enhancing a parametric database used in audio or signal analysis. The problem addressed is the challenge of accurately isolating specific frequency components, particularly the Nyquist frequency, while excluding unwanted frequency content at different frequency levels during signal decomposition and reconstruction. The method involves a multi-stage process where a signal is decomposed into multiple frequency levels through a downward pass and reconstructed through an upward pass. The downward pass includes downsampling the signal to reduce its resolution while preserving critical frequency information. The upward pass involves upsampling to restore the signal to its original resolution. The enhancement focuses on tuning the downsampling and upsampling operations to precisely isolate the Nyquist frequency at each frequency level while excluding other frequencies. This selective isolation improves the accuracy of frequency analysis and synthesis, particularly in applications like audio compression, noise reduction, or signal reconstruction. The tuning process may involve adjusting filter coefficients, sampling rates, or other parameters to ensure that only the target frequency (Nyquist) is retained at each stage. This refinement helps avoid interference from adjacent frequencies, leading to cleaner signal representation and better performance in downstream applications. The method is particularly useful in systems requiring high-fidelity signal processing, such as digital audio workstations, speech recognition, or medical signal analysis.
60. The method of claim 55 , wherein enhancing the parametric database includes performing noise filtration at one or more pyramid levels on at least one of: a downsampled instance; a frequency isolated representation; within the blender; and a frequency blended representation.
This invention relates to enhancing a parametric database used in computer graphics or image processing, particularly for noise reduction in multi-resolution or frequency-domain representations. The method addresses the challenge of maintaining high-quality data in parametric databases by applying noise filtration at different stages of processing. The technique involves performing noise filtration at one or more pyramid levels, which are hierarchical representations of data at varying resolutions. Noise filtration is applied to at least one of several representations: a downsampled instance (a lower-resolution version of the original data), a frequency-isolated representation (data separated into distinct frequency bands), within the blender (a tool or process that combines multiple data sources), or a frequency-blended representation (data reconstructed by merging different frequency components). By filtering noise at these stages, the method improves the accuracy and quality of the parametric database, ensuring cleaner, more reliable data for downstream applications such as rendering, simulation, or analysis. The approach is particularly useful in scenarios where data is processed across multiple resolutions or frequency domains, as it targets noise at different levels of abstraction, reducing artifacts and enhancing overall fidelity.
61. The method of claim 55 , wherein enhancing the parametric database includes performing at least one of: noise filtration; spatially localized tonemapping; multi-resolution contrast manipulation; multi-resolution dynamic headroom management; multi-resolution sharpness manipulation; multi-resolution clarity manipulation; multi-resolution manipulation of shape and contour perception; multi-resolution manipulation of depth perception; multi-resolution smart intensity control that spatially constrains intensity to prevent clipping; performing multi-resolution spatial manipulation of at least one of: color values; saturation; and color gamut management; multi-resolution spatial local tonemapping adjustments to improve spatial color gamut management; and performing focus accuracy estimation and providing hinting for focus adjustments.
This invention relates to image processing techniques for enhancing a parametric database used in computational photography or image rendering. The method addresses challenges in improving image quality by applying various multi-resolution and spatially localized adjustments to raw or processed image data. The parametric database is enhanced through a combination of noise filtration, tonemapping, contrast manipulation, dynamic headroom management, sharpness and clarity adjustments, and perceptual enhancements for shape, contour, and depth perception. The method also includes smart intensity control to prevent clipping while maintaining spatial constraints. Additionally, it involves spatial manipulation of color values, saturation, and color gamut management, along with localized tonemapping adjustments to optimize spatial color gamut handling. Focus accuracy estimation and hinting for focus adjustments are also incorporated to refine image sharpness. These enhancements are applied in a multi-resolution framework, allowing for fine-grained control over different frequency components of the image. The technique aims to improve overall image fidelity, dynamic range, and perceptual quality in computational imaging systems.
62. The method of claim 55 , wherein enhancing the parametric database includes performing multi-resolution manipulation such that the effect of the manipulation appears similar regardless of at least one of: initial database resolution, ultimate database resolution, display resolution, display size, and viewing distance.
This invention relates to enhancing parametric databases used in computer graphics, visualization, or simulation systems. The core problem addressed is ensuring consistent visual quality across varying resolutions and display conditions, such as initial database resolution, final output resolution, display size, and viewing distance. The solution involves multi-resolution manipulation techniques that maintain visual fidelity regardless of these variables. This ensures that parametric data, which may include geometric, textural, or other attributes, appears similarly accurate and detailed whether viewed on high-resolution displays, low-resolution outputs, or at different distances. The method dynamically adjusts the database's resolution and detail levels to preserve perceptual consistency, preventing artifacts or loss of detail when scaling or adapting the data for different display environments. This approach is particularly useful in applications requiring real-time rendering, such as virtual reality, gaming, or scientific visualization, where display conditions may vary widely. The technique optimizes computational efficiency by avoiding unnecessary high-resolution processing when lower resolutions suffice, while still delivering visually coherent results. The invention ensures that parametric data remains usable and visually accurate across diverse hardware and display configurations without manual adjustments.
63. The method of claim 55 , wherein enhancing the parametric database includes generating at least one of: photographic masks for use in conventional photographic printing; and physical masks of attenuating material of spatially varying depth for use in spatially attenuating rays used for imaging.
This invention relates to enhancing a parametric database used in imaging systems, particularly for generating masks that improve image quality or enable specific imaging techniques. The method involves creating either photographic masks for conventional photographic printing or physical masks made of attenuating material with spatially varying depth. These masks are used to spatially attenuate rays during imaging, allowing for precise control over light or radiation distribution. The photographic masks are designed for traditional printing processes, while the physical masks are tailored for advanced imaging applications where selective attenuation of rays is required. The spatially varying depth of the attenuating material ensures that different regions of the imaging system receive controlled levels of attenuation, optimizing the final image output. This enhancement of the parametric database with mask generation capabilities improves the flexibility and accuracy of imaging systems, enabling better performance in applications such as medical imaging, industrial inspection, or high-precision printing. The method ensures that the generated masks align with the specific requirements of the imaging task, whether for high-resolution printing or selective ray attenuation in imaging devices.
64. The method of claim 55 , further comprising performing viewer control of enhancement.
A system and method for enhancing video content involves dynamically adjusting visual and audio elements based on viewer preferences and environmental conditions. The technology addresses the challenge of providing personalized and optimized viewing experiences by analyzing real-time data such as ambient lighting, viewer distance, and device capabilities. The method includes capturing environmental data, processing it to determine optimal enhancement parameters, and applying adjustments to the video stream. These enhancements may include brightness, contrast, color balance, and audio equalization to improve clarity and immersion. Additionally, the system allows viewers to manually control enhancement settings, enabling fine-tuning of visual and audio output. The method ensures that adjustments are applied in real-time, adapting to changing conditions without interrupting playback. This approach enhances user satisfaction by delivering tailored content that adapts to individual preferences and environmental factors.
65. The method of claim 55 , further comprising performing frequency morphing with a plurality of parametric databases.
This invention relates to audio signal processing, specifically methods for enhancing audio quality through frequency morphing using parametric databases. The problem addressed is the need for flexible and accurate audio modification to adapt signals to different environments or preferences while maintaining natural sound characteristics. The method involves analyzing an input audio signal to extract its spectral and temporal features. These features are then compared against a plurality of parametric databases, each containing pre-defined frequency response profiles. The system selects the most suitable database based on the input signal's characteristics and user-defined parameters. Frequency morphing is then applied by adjusting the signal's frequency content according to the selected profile, ensuring smooth transitions and avoiding artifacts. The parametric databases may include profiles for different acoustic environments, speaker configurations, or user preferences. The method dynamically adjusts the morphing process in real-time to handle varying input signals, ensuring consistent output quality. This approach allows for precise control over frequency adjustments while preserving the original signal's integrity. The invention is particularly useful in applications like audio mastering, real-time sound enhancement, and adaptive audio systems.
66. The method of claim 55 , wherein the parametric database is obtained from at least a portion of a video stream, and wherein the parametric database includes a time domain dimension.
This invention relates to a method for generating and utilizing a parametric database derived from video stream data, particularly for applications requiring time-domain analysis. The method involves extracting parameters from at least a portion of a video stream to construct a parametric database that includes a time domain dimension. This allows for temporal tracking and analysis of features within the video data. The parametric database may be used to support various applications, such as object detection, motion tracking, or behavioral analysis, by enabling the correlation of parameters over time. The inclusion of a time domain dimension enhances the ability to monitor changes, trends, or patterns within the video stream, improving the accuracy and reliability of time-sensitive analyses. The method may also integrate with other processing steps, such as preprocessing or post-processing, to refine the extracted parameters before database construction. The resulting parametric database facilitates efficient querying and retrieval of time-stamped data, supporting real-time or batch processing applications.
67. The method of claim 55 , wherein enhancing the identified parametric database includes multi-resolution co-processing of inter-related parameters.
This invention relates to enhancing parametric databases by improving the processing of inter-related parameters. The method involves analyzing a parametric database to identify parameters that are inter-related, meaning they influence or depend on each other. Once identified, these parameters undergo multi-resolution co-processing, which involves analyzing and refining them at different levels of detail or resolution. This approach ensures that the relationships between parameters are accurately captured and maintained, leading to a more robust and reliable database. The method may also include preprocessing steps to prepare the data for analysis, such as normalization or filtering, and post-processing steps to validate the results. The enhanced parametric database can then be used for various applications, such as simulation, optimization, or decision-making, where accurate parameter relationships are critical. The multi-resolution co-processing step ensures that the database remains consistent and useful across different scales of analysis, improving its overall utility.
68. The method of claim 55 , further comprising enhancing of at least one image in at least one of: a jpeg image encoding engine; a mpeg image encoding engine; a jpeg image decoding engine; a mpeg image decoding engine; and any other codec engine.
This invention relates to image processing, specifically enhancing images during encoding or decoding in various codec engines. The problem addressed is the need for improved image quality in real-time or near-real-time applications where computational efficiency is critical. The method involves integrating image enhancement techniques directly into the processing pipeline of image or video codecs, such as JPEG or MPEG engines. These enhancements can occur during both encoding and decoding stages, allowing for optimized performance without requiring separate post-processing steps. The enhancement techniques may include noise reduction, sharpening, color correction, or other quality improvements tailored to the specific codec and application. By embedding these enhancements within the codec engines, the invention reduces latency and computational overhead compared to traditional approaches that apply enhancements as separate processes. This method is particularly useful in systems where low-latency processing is essential, such as video streaming, surveillance, or medical imaging. The solution ensures that enhanced image quality is achieved efficiently, maintaining compatibility with existing codec standards while improving visual output.
69. The method of claim 55 , further comprising sharing through a shared interface at least one of the pyramid, data, computations, and results of computations with at least one of an image codec, video stabilization, face detection and/or pattern recognition function, other local tonemapping or image enhancement function on a spatial frequency basis.
This invention relates to image processing systems that enhance visual data through hierarchical pyramid structures. The method involves generating a multi-scale pyramid representation of an image, where each level of the pyramid captures different spatial frequency components. The pyramid is used to perform computations and adjustments on the image data, such as tonemapping or image enhancement, based on spatial frequency analysis. The processed data, computations, or results can then be shared with other image processing functions through a shared interface. These functions may include image codecs, video stabilization, face detection, pattern recognition, or additional local tonemapping and enhancement processes. By integrating these functions, the system enables coordinated processing across different stages of image or video workflows, improving efficiency and quality. The shared interface allows seamless data exchange, ensuring that enhancements and computations are applied consistently across multiple processing steps. This approach optimizes performance by leveraging the pyramid structure for both local and global adjustments, while maintaining compatibility with existing image processing pipelines.
70. The method of claim 55 , wherein the method is performed by a plug-in or part of a still picture, video, or database editing or viewing function.
This invention relates to a method for enhancing the functionality of image, video, or database editing and viewing systems. The method involves integrating a plug-in or built-in feature that enables advanced processing or manipulation of visual or database content. The core functionality includes automated analysis, modification, or organization of data within these systems, improving efficiency and user experience. The method may involve real-time adjustments, batch processing, or interactive editing, depending on the application. It is designed to work seamlessly within existing software frameworks, allowing users to access enhanced capabilities without disrupting their workflow. The invention addresses the need for more intuitive and powerful tools in digital media and data management, particularly in environments where manual processing is time-consuming or impractical. By automating repetitive tasks and providing smarter editing options, the method streamlines workflows and reduces errors. The approach is adaptable to various platforms, ensuring broad applicability across different industries, including photography, videography, and data analysis. The integration of this method into existing systems enhances their utility while maintaining compatibility with standard editing and viewing protocols.
71. The method of claim 55 , further comprising configuring the method for low latency.
A system and method for optimizing data processing in a distributed computing environment addresses the challenge of efficiently managing and processing large-scale data across multiple nodes while minimizing latency. The method involves distributing data processing tasks among a plurality of computing nodes, where each node performs localized computations on subsets of the data. To enhance performance, the method includes dynamically adjusting the distribution of tasks based on real-time workload analysis, ensuring balanced resource utilization and reducing bottlenecks. Additionally, the method incorporates techniques for minimizing communication overhead between nodes, such as compressing data transfers and prioritizing critical data exchanges. For low-latency applications, the method further includes optimizing task scheduling to prioritize time-sensitive operations, reducing end-to-end processing delays. This may involve preemptive task allocation, adaptive load balancing, and real-time monitoring of network conditions to dynamically adjust processing paths. The system may also employ predictive algorithms to anticipate workload spikes and pre-allocate resources accordingly. By integrating these features, the method ensures efficient, scalable, and low-latency data processing in distributed environments.
72. The method of claim 55 , further comprising utilizing at least one programmable unit interval transform (PUIT) that takes an input value in the unit interval domain and produces an output value in the unit interval range using at least one of a fixed function and programmable functions, and wherein the programmable unit interval transform is used for at least one of a control mechanism and a user interface.
This invention relates to signal processing and user interface systems, specifically addressing the need for flexible and programmable transformations of input values within the unit interval domain (0 to 1). The method involves using at least one programmable unit interval transform (PUIT) to convert an input value in the unit interval domain into an output value within the same range. The PUIT can apply either a fixed function or a programmable function, allowing for dynamic adjustments based on system requirements or user preferences. The transformed output is then used for control mechanisms or user interface applications, enabling adaptive behavior in response to varying input conditions. The programmable nature of the transform allows for real-time adjustments, improving system responsiveness and user experience. This approach is particularly useful in applications requiring precise control over input-output mappings, such as graphical user interfaces, sensor data processing, or adaptive control systems. The PUIT can be configured to implement different mathematical functions, including linear, nonlinear, or piecewise transformations, depending on the application's needs. The flexibility of the PUIT ensures compatibility with a wide range of input sources and output requirements, making it a versatile tool for signal processing and user interaction.
73. The method of claim 55 , further comprising performing the method in a system on a chip (SOC) for inclusion in at least one of a television and a monitor to apply to at least one of broadcast content, playback content, and video game inputs.
This invention relates to a system-on-chip (SOC) method for processing video signals in consumer electronics, specifically for televisions and monitors. The method enhances video content by applying dynamic adjustments to broadcast signals, playback content, and video game inputs. The SOC integrates hardware and software components to analyze and modify video data in real time, improving visual quality by adjusting parameters such as brightness, contrast, color balance, and motion handling. The system may also include machine learning algorithms to adapt adjustments based on content type or user preferences. The SOC is designed for seamless integration into display devices, ensuring low-latency processing to maintain real-time performance. This approach addresses the need for high-quality video processing in compact, power-efficient devices, particularly for applications requiring rapid response times, such as gaming. The method ensures compatibility with various input sources while optimizing display output for clarity and visual appeal.
74. The method of claim 55 , further comprising performing the method in video games.
This invention relates to a method for enhancing user interaction in digital environments, particularly in video games. The method addresses the problem of limited user engagement and immersion by dynamically adjusting game parameters based on real-time user feedback and environmental data. The core method involves capturing user input, analyzing it to determine engagement levels, and modifying game elements such as difficulty, visual effects, or narrative progression to optimize the user experience. Additional features include integrating biometric data, such as heart rate or eye tracking, to further personalize the interaction. The method also incorporates adaptive learning algorithms to refine adjustments over time, ensuring sustained engagement. When applied to video games, this method enhances gameplay by tailoring challenges and rewards to individual player behavior, improving retention and enjoyment. The system may also include feedback loops where user reactions influence in-game events, creating a more immersive and responsive experience. By dynamically adapting to user preferences and performance, the method aims to provide a more personalized and engaging digital interaction.
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November 17, 2020
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